Oceanside  Hundreds of local residents will be “freezin’ for a reason” Saturday, March 2, at the seventh annual Polar Plunge.

To raise money for the Special Olympics, local sunbathers pledge to take a quick dip into the chilly Pacific Ocean. Organizers hope to raise $20,000 from “plungers” (as well as from those who sign up in the “Too Chicken to Plunge” category).

Plungers are asked to raise at least $50 in pledges for Special Olympics before dipping their toes in the frigid waters near the Oceanside Municipal Pier. Money raised on Saturday will go toward programs such as basketball, track, tennis, gymnastics and bocce ball. So far, more than $9,000 in pledges has been collected.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. From 9 to 10 a.m., there will be vendor booths be set up around the pier amphitheater, and plunge safety instructions will be announced.

The plunge begins at 10 a.m. and concludes at 11 a.m. Swimmers can stay in the water as long as they wish, although most last just a few seconds in the 50-degree water before retreating to their blankets and towels. Many plungers dress in costumes and hats to add to the party atmosphere.

Plungers are also encouraged to wear something on their feet, because the wet sand is cold. Full immersion in the ocean (without a wet suit) is discouraged by lifeguards because it will be more difficult to determine when a swimmer is in distress.

Every registered plunger who raises at least $50 will receive a Polar Plunge T-shirt as well as the option of some incentive gifts, depending upon how much money they raise (options include a sweatshirt, duffel bag and beach chair).

The Oceanside plunge is one of three taking place around Southern California on Saturday. Plungers will also take a dip at L.A.’s Zuma Beach and at Castaic Lake, and on March 9, a plunge is planned in Big Bear Lake.